Blog.

​Note that oral and written testimony are unique; this post discusses oral testimony only. Further note that the "Getting There" section is for the State of Rhode Island only, while the "Giving Testimony" and "Tips" section applies more broadly.Getting There: 1. Arrive at the RI Statehouse by 4:30PM (earlier if the bill is controversial and will draw significant testimony). 2. Sign up in the in the hearing room that is posted on the committee agenda. 3. Wait for the ‘Rise’ (aka the moment when the House or Senate ends their floor session); this is when testimonies will begin. 4. Wait in the hearing room until you are called by the chairperson to testify. If the room is over capacity, wait outside the room.

Giving Testimony: 5. Thank the committee and chairman/woman 6. State your name and expertise 7. State the bill number and your position 8. Clearly state your argument and back it up with stats, facts, and examples. Remember to:

Repeat your argument multiple times during your testimony

Use powerful patient stories when appropriate

Refute opposing arguments

9. Thank the committee again and offer to address questions

​Tips:

Less is more: be concise

Avoid jargon, and speak clearly

Be brief: keep it to 3 minutes or less

Don’t read directly from notes or written testimony

Mention new or unique information

For a stronger position, prepare written testimony in addition to your oral testimony ahead of time